Elias shifted in his seat, the carriage wheels grinding against the cobblestones as they approached the castle gates. His gaze was fixed on Isolde's face, her hands still twisting in her skirts. "What will I do when they ask questions?" he clarified.
She shook her head, her words coming out in a rush. "No, I mean after. When you're released." His expression darkened. "They won't release me."
The carriage jolted to a stop, and the sudden silence felt heavy with his words. Isolde stared at him, her chest tightening. "What do you mean?"
Before he could answer, the carriage door was yanked open. Guards surrounded them, their faces grim. "Your Highness," one of them addressed her stiffly, bowing just enough to be polite. "The Prince is waiting."
